Smart and travel giant TUI have teamed up to introduce special edition electric SUVs as both company cars and rental vehicles, aiming to enhance TUI’s sustainability ambitions while boosting brand engagement.
The initial launch will feature TUI-branded versions of the smart #1 and #3 electric vehicles, with plans to include the smart #5 electric SUV at a later stage. These vehicles will be available to TUI employees, their families, friends, and customers at ‘attractive’ rates. Additionally, TUI intends to offer these models as company cars at its resort locations worldwide.
While the special editions will retain the mechanical specifications of standard smart models, they will sport TUI’s signature colors and include exclusive accessories, such as a navigation system that highlights nearby TUI travel agents and hotels. Specific pricing and additional feature details are yet to be released.
The initiative aligns with TUI’s broader ‘People, Planet, Progress’ strategy, targeting 90% electrification of employee service and operation vehicles and 80-90% of guest transfer vehicles by 2030. TUI CEO Sebastian Ebel emphasized the collaboration’s role in strengthening brand loyalty through integrating e-mobility into the holiday experience, stating, “The design, technology and responsibility of the smart brand are a perfect fit with the TUI Smile and its global recognition.”
Smart’s current EV lineup includes the smart #1 and #3 models. The smart #1 ‘Pro’ trim features a 49kWh battery offering a 310km range and a peak charging rate of 130kW, while the smart #3 Premium trim is equipped with a 62kWh battery providing up to 455km of range. The company recently opened orders for the smart #5, a premium electric SUV aimed at the upper market segment.